Millions of cat owners “prefer” their feline friend’s company to their partner's, a study has found. Research of 1,000 adults, who own a cat, found 49% would rather spend time with their furry friend, and 53% choose to do so most of the time.
Having a nap, sharing a cuddle, and watching TV were the situations owners preferred to spend time with their pet over their partner – while 31% said they’d even rather share their duvet with their cat.
And a quarter of all respondents enjoy a snuggle more with their feline friend, while 47% also revealed they find their pet less irritating.
The research comes as animal welfare charity, Battersea, celebrates its 140th anniversary of welcoming cats to their iconic London centre.
To mark the milestone, it has partnered with dating platform, Thursday, to host an event at the centre, offering consumers the opportunity to meet their potential furry match, and learn more about the rehoming process.
Rachel Saunders, Battersea rehoming & welfare manager, said: “Every cat is unique, with their own personalities and unique quirks that make them a much-loved member of the family – which is proven by this new research, highlighting the overwhelming amount of love people have for their pets.
“There is so much that people are gaining from their relationships with their cats – from the incredible bond they share with them, to celebrating their true, unbridled cattitude.”
It also emerged three-quarters of owners speak to their cat more than once a day – with 23% confiding in their pet with information they’d never share with anyone else.
More than half (51%) believe their own personality matches that of their cat – with affection, character, and friendliness the top traits desired.
And 31% said they look for the same type of traits in a pet as they do in a partner. In fact, one in three even think there are moments their other half gets jealous of the attention their pet receives over them.
And 67% admit they’re absolutely fascinated by the life their cat leads, according to the data, compiled by OnePoll.
The top reasons owners would recommend getting a feline friend were companionship, improved mental health, and the unconditional love they give you.
And the main advice they’d provide would be to keep the litter box clean, adopt from a rescue centre, and keep them regularly checked over by the vet.
Of those polled, 35% had rehomed a cat, and 29% hadn’t but would consider it in the future.
Bradley Tovell, Battersea cattery team leader, said: “The research has certainly shown all the enjoyment that can be had from spending time with and owning a cat.
“After 140 years together at Battersea, we have learned that one of the best ways we can be here for cats is by finding our feline friends a home where their cattitude can truly shine.”
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